Area Characteristics
Niigata is an area facing the Japan Sea which includes Sado Island located in the northern Chubu region. The prefecture has an area that is 5.74 times bigger than that of Tokyo and has a rich and prosperous agricultural industry including rice cultivation that makes use of the wide land. Also, the metal products manufactured in the cities of Tsubame and Sanjo are known throughout the world as top-class wares. In winter, Niigata becomes an area of heavy snowfall so there is skiing in the mountains but the hot springs can be enjoyed all year.
Popular Spots
Yahiko Shrine is famous as a power spot. In addition, a tour of historic landmarks can be enjoyed within Niigata City. For leisure activities, there is the onsen area of Tsukioka, and in winter, the mountain regions such as Gala Yuzawa and Myoko Kogen are a ski resort mecca.
Food
High-grade rice and sake manufacturing flourishes in Niigata, known as “The Land of Rice”. In fact, it is boasted as the top taste in Japan. In addition to the red snow crab harvested in the Japan Sea and sushi which makes use of fresh seafood, there is excellent farm produce such as Echigohime strawberries and Le Lectier pears. Local ramen include Noko miso ramen of Niigata City, Se-abura ramen of Tsubame, and the curry ramen of Sanjo. Sasa dango (bamboo leaf dumplings) is a natural as a Niigata souvenir.
Transportation
It takes a minimum of 2.5 hours by Joetsu Shinkansen from Tokyo to Niigata Station which is the gateway for your trip of the prefecture. Local buses run within the city and using buses such as the Niigata City Loop Bus will make an effective tour of the famous spots. To get to all places from Niigata, take routes such as the JR Limited Express trains, the Shinetsu Main Line, the Yahiko Main Line and the Uetsu Main Line. You can take the Joetsu Shinkansen to reach the ski resorts. Gala Yuzawa Ski Resort is directly connected to the station so access is convenient.
Accommodations
Along with hotels which are directly connected to Niigata Station, there are many modern hotels in the vicinity of the station. You can select from a range of individualistic accommodations including Japanese ryokan and hotels equipped with onsen of a blend of Japanese and Western styles in the onsen area of Tsukioka, hotels in the ski resort areas, onsen ryokan, and Western-style lodges.